REPORT: 14% of drivers in Bondi say getting a parking fine is ‘worth it,’ because it’s so hard to find spots there

TIME IS MONEY: A new report has found that 14% of drivers in Bondi willingly accept parking fines as a reasonable price for the privilege of leaving their cars somewhere, anywhere, in the popular suburb.

“Honestly it’s just part of my budget now,” says one Vaucluse man.

“I used to spend 45 minutes looking for legal parking in Bondi, but not any more.”

“Now I just take the fine and continue parking there for hours.”

“$129 for parking in a no parking zone is a pretty good deal.”

The UNSW report highlights a growing trend among drivers who view parking fines less as a deterrent and more as a parking fee.

Residents who rely on street parking are frustrated by the situation.

“It’s infuriating,” says Milly Clarke, a Bondi local without off-street parking.

“People who can afford the fines are taking up spots meant for everyone.”

The state government says it’s looking into the issue.

“Fines should deter illegal parking, but it doesn’t seem to work that way in some parts of the eastern suburbs,” admits the NSW roads minister.